Complete genome sequence of Acidaminococcus fermentans type strain (VR4)

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genomics
• Bacterial Taxonomy

Background:

• Acidaminococcus fermentans is the type species of the genus Acidaminococcus, phylogenetically isolated within the Firmicutes.
• This bacterium resides in the gastrointestinal tract and is known for trans-aconitate oxidation and glutamate fermentation.
• The genomic basis of A. fermentans, particularly its anaerobic glutamate fermentation, remains largely uncharacterized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide the first complete genome sequence of Acidaminococcus fermentans.
• To annotate the genome and characterize the organism's features.
• To contribute to the Genomic Encyclopedia of Bacteria and Archaea project.

Main Methods:

• Isolation and characterization of a nonsporulating, nonmotile, Gram-negative coccus from a pig alimentary tract.
• Whole-genome sequencing to obtain the complete genome sequence.
• Bioinformatic analysis for genome annotation, including protein-coding and RNA genes.

Main Results:

• The complete genome sequence of Acidaminococcus fermentans was determined, comprising 2,329,769 bp.
• The genome contains 2,101 protein-coding genes and 81 RNA genes.
• This represents the first genome sequence for a member of the family Acidaminococcaceae.

Conclusions:

• The availability of the A. fermentans genome provides crucial insights into its phylogenetic placement and metabolic functions.
• This work establishes a genomic foundation for further research into Acidaminococcaceae.
• The study contributes significantly to the understanding of bacterial diversity within the Firmicutes phylum.